The countries backing were Kazakstan, Kyryz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. They also spoke about jointly implementing the project, which included efforts to link the construction of the Eurasian Economic Union and BRI. The meeting was chaired by the premier of China's State Council Li Kegiang.
In an apparent reference to China's controversial BRI project, our EAM said, "Connectivity projects should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member-states and respect international law. Fair market access is the only way to move forward. The Chabahar port and the International North South Transport Corridor would become enablers for better connectivity in the SCO region".
The International North South Transport Corridor that combines road, rail and maritime routes connecting Russia and India via Central Asia and Iran. It links the Indian Ocean to the Caspian Sea via the Persian Gulf onwards into Russia and Northern Europe.
The Indian EAM also spoke about Mission LiFE launched by PM Narendra Modi in Gujarat recently which envisions replacing the prevalent "use and dispose" economy by a circular economy.
India also highlighted that in 2023 the UN International Year of Millets, India intends foster greater cooperation with SCO member-states on countering the food crisis.
Our total trade with SCO members is only $141 billion, which has the potential to increase manifold. Fair market access is to our mutual benefit and will only move forward.
India has repeatedly registered its protests over China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the flagship project of China's BRI as it passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) which is Indian territory.
The SCO is seen as an eastern counter-balance to NATO and India's membership has allowed her to push effective action in combating terrorism and security issues. The SCO's significance for India mainly lies in economics and geopolitics with member states.
SCO is also a potential platform to advance India's Central Asia policy.
My take
India is on a strong wicket here.
Courtesy. Yeshi Seli in the NIE
Tailpiece.
Got up at a quarter past 6, the chores and was ready by a 10' to 10. Earlier, carried out the usual Wednesday aarathi of the house.
Went to town and Mohandas was my faithful sa'arthi for the entire journey. Finished up work at the SBI and ICICI banks. The Life Certificate activity was done.
Went for the Mohanlal starrer 'Monster' but saw the Kannada 'Kantara' instead at Devaki. We, both, liked it!
Kittu was given his supper at sunset.
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